Exam week is approaching, and for some of us, that means long hours of studying, possibly well into the night. If you are planning to stay up late to study, NUS has your back with libraries and study spaces that open till late. Whether you are looking for a quiet place or a change of scenery, these spots are ready to keep you going all night long. Let us show you where to study around the clock and share some handy tips to help you power through those all-nighters without burning out!
📖 Some late-night study spots during exam period
- Central Library (find out more through the Virtual tour here)
Central Library (source: NUS Libraries – Facilities)
Located at the heart of NUS, the Central Library (CLB) is the largest and most visited library in NUS. CLB is not only a typical reading area with a wide variety of book genres, but also an ideal environment to work and study. For example, many of us already know that there are various rooms for discussions, events, and exhibitions. But, did you know that there is a Tech Central where you can explore Virtual Reality (VR), a recording studio and other immersive tech tools. There are also vending machines outside Level 1 where you can buy snacks and drinks to power up while studying, and even full salad bowls and sandwiches if you need a substantial meal!
360imx – The first 360° projection screen among Singapore academic institutions
(Source: NUS Libraries)
Normally, the Central Library is open from 9am – 9pm every weekday. During the weekend, most levels are open from 10am – 5pm on Saturday (except for Level 3), and it is closed on Sunday.
However, during the exam period, specifically from 16th November 2024 (Week 13) to 6th December 2024 (end of exam week), Level 6 is open 24/7 for NUS staff and students to prepare for finals and work. After 9pm (outside of the main library’s operating hours), access to the study area is available through physical card entry at the external Level 6 corridor (near NUS IT Care).
Study area at Level 6, Central Library (source: NUS Libraries)
2. Medicine + Science Library (find out more through the Virtual tour here)
Medicine + Science Library (source: NUS Libraries)
As a newly established library (since 2023) near the Faculty of Science (FOS) and School of Medicine, Medicine + Science Library (MSL) offers modern facilities and resources designed to support learning, research and teaching activities. Plus, MSL is conveniently located near the Frontier canteen with various food stalls, as well as many other cafes and restaurants, providing you with different options to choose from while taking a break from study. There is even an in-house cafe, Good Day Cafe – selling rice bowls, salads and hipster coffee for your fueling up in the evening, before hitting that long study sesh into the night.
MSL’s regular opening hours are from 9am to 6pm and close on the weekends. However, there are areas that opens 24/7 (even on the weekend), including Level 1 Atrium, Level 2 Study Area and Level 3 Quiet Study. These spaces are reserved exclusively for NUS staff and students, so be sure to bring your student card when visiting MSL!
Quiet Study Level 3, Medicine + Science Library (source: NUS Libraries)
3. UTown study clusters
As the heart of NUS, UTown is facilitated with various study areas, both indoor (with air-condition) and outdoor. However, these spots are usually very crowded, especially during exam period, so make sure to head down early to reserve, or chope seats first!
During Reading and Exam weeks, some of the study spots including PC Commons (level 1 ERC), Mac Commons (level 1 ERC) and the seminar rooms at Town plaza (above Fine Food) are open from 8am – 12am. Besides, the Study (level 2 ERC) and the Ian and Peony Ferguson Study (level 3 ERC) are also available from 8am – 10pm everyday, including weekends.
Mac Commons room at UTown (source: shicheng.news)
The Study at UTown ERC (source: NUS Blog)
In addition, the Starbucks in UTown also opens 24/7 for staff and students who prefer a cozier and more relaxed atmosphere, along with snacks and drinks for you to power up throughout the night.
Starbucks at UTown (source: NUS website)
4. Others
Apart from the three locations above, there are also many study spots opening from morning until the afternoon, so don’t forget to check out their schedules here!
📖 Tips for the night-owl
If you are planning to stay up late to study, be sure to save these tips for a more effective study session!
⭐ We do not encourage all-nighter, especially many days in a row is definitely a “no-go”. However, if it is during crunch time, remember to take breaks between your study sessions and sleep more after you finish!
⭐ You can use “Chope@NUS” on your uNivUS app to chope seats in advance (this is not applicable for study spaces at UTown and ERC).
⭐ Prioritize tasks and avoid distractions by putting your phone on “Do not disturb” mode.
⭐ Remember to bring your water bottle to utilize the free water dispensers around the library and stay hydrated!
⭐ Lastly, bring a jacket or hoodie because the aircon room is freezing sometimes >.<
Whether you’re burning the midnight oil or just staying up a little longer to finish that last chapter, these tips will help make your late-night study session a little more manageable. Remember, balance is key – take care of yourself and keep your focus sharp!
Got any tips of your own for other night-owl fellows? Comment down below and share with us!
